Zoo Finally Announces Plan To Move Our Lions And It Stinks!

Well, it happened, the Zoo finally announced late yesterday afternoon confirming their plan to move Our Lions out of Our Zoo.

My goal with the last three posts, was to get CEO Costello to make a statement about Our Lions and/or Mayor Lurie to do the same about his alleged fundraising efforts for Pandas.  So, either my efforts worked, or this was coincidence.  I don't believe in the later.

After writing yesterday's post, I was running late and had a lot to do, so I didn't get to networking that post to any Officials.  I still will, in addition to this one, because I still think those posts contain valid information.

I have a problem with most of the statements in this article.  So, I'm about to shoot some holes in their announcement.

So, yes, I do not believe their reason given for moving Our Lions. Of course, this is only my opinion, and if I'm ever wrong about something, I'll admit it.  I don't know everything, but I know a lot, and I have never heard one word that there was a concern about the Cat Yards being an issue as the Lions age.

Big Cats, both Lions and Tigers have been aging in these same yards for ninety-three years, without being moved out.  Jasiri's Father and Grandfather both had the mobility predisposition, and lived out their lives in these yards.  Fences were put up to prevent entry to the moats for at least one Lion and two Tigers, that I can remember.  At the time these two current Cat yards were four, so they are a much larger area to fence, but it's doable.  They could possibly even build a tall fence in place of where old finger walls used to be, to reduce yard size, to create a smaller fence line along moat cliff.  The question is do they want to?

That answer is given and it's no.   Yet a premature no, as these upgrades aren't even currently needed, and may not be for years to come.  The Zoo could realistically close for good before the Lions exhibit any age related issues that would require upgrades.  So uprooting Our Lions is being done on a hypothetical, being sold as a need.

I believe this is purely Panda agenda driven.  I believe if they didn't have a plan to use the Lion House for Pandas, Our Lions would not be moving. If they weren't holding the Lion House for Pandas, this discussion would not even be happening.  It reads like a diversion from Panda invasion, to make the public feel better about their choice to evict Our Lions.  No Pandas and Our Lions stay in their home.   

I'm sorry, but I wouldn't buy this reasoning for ten cents.  That said, I don't need to be the know it all, so, let's for a few questions, go with this being 100% true.   If this is not attached to needing to clear the Lion House for Pandas, then...

Why does the long tradition of having Big Cats have to end?  

Why can't the Lions stay where they are until, if ever, they actually show the signs of aging being put forth?

If at that time the Zoo can't afford to make the necessary upgrades, then revisit relocation.  If this is truly not Panda related, then let the above play out.

If this is a reason and move they plan to stick by, then,...

Why doesn't the Zoo acquire another pair of Lions, and a Tiger for the other Cat Yard?

This would allow for the Zoo find a more comfortable home for Our Lions, while still housing fan favorites.  New Lions would not be my Lions, the ones I'm attached, but keeping Big Cats at Our Zoo would go a long way with public satisfaction, and support.  Isn't that's what's desperately needed right now?  

It would seemingly make sense if this move was truly not Panda related, but we know it is. 

So of course the above is my realistic hypothetical.  A very logical reaction.  What does having to move one pair of Lions, have to do with the ending of a ninety-three year historic tradition?

The answer is nothing.  The Zoo needs to keep Our Lions Home, and acquire a Tiger for the neighboring enclosure that has been empty for too many years.

The Zoo is allegedly barely hanging on, rumored to be at constant risk for closing.  The financial situation is dire. They are literally banking on Pandas Saving Our Zoo.  Yet there has been no word on where the fundraising for that stands.  News reported recently Pandas were coming early 2028, yet this article notes, they might not even come.  Let's say 2028 is accurate, that's two years away.   Two years of waiting on a maybe.  The Zoo needs to concentrate on fixing things now, not holding vigil for something that may never happen.  Two empty Cat yards, added to all the other vacancies, and the upcoming Triple Grotto closure,  the Zoo can not afford the kind of backlash this decision will bring. 

The future is not looking bright for Our Zoo.  No Big Cats at Our Zoo could be the nail in the coffin for Our Zoo.

What is the doable and logical solution.  In my opinion, there are a few things, but none they will probably do.

Adopt my Taking Care At Home slogan, and start doing just that.  Stop sending away fan favorites, try harder to keep them because it pisses people off.  Fill empty enclosures, they can't keep raising prices or expect people to buy Memberships when the Animal collection is dwindling.  Elevate presentation, there are too many things that are in need of care, that cost little or nothing.

Additionally, in my opinion, the Zoo needs to come clean and publicly say the reality is, the Zoo could close at any time.  They need to say they are holding onto the hope that increased revenue from Pandas save them.  They need to plead with the Zoo-going public to visit and support, while assuring that their support is not going to Pandas.  That last bit is important because many are not in support of Pandas.  

The last two highlighted areas make absolutely no sense to me.  Using "feasible" in reference to there being no other areas for the Lions, is misleading in my opinion.  Why doesn't the Zoo just say, they can not financially afford to build a new enclosure for the Lions, because they have no money.   

If there was even funds raised for Pandas, those are probably locked donations, meaning Donors aren't willing to give to Needs, only Wants.  I learned this as it has been a downfall with some Zoo Board Donors over the years.

The Lions don't need anything financially related now.  They don't have any health related issues that prevent them from staying put.  They just need to be left alone and left in their home.  They are being treated like the invasive species.  The Zoo needs to figure it out and stop fantasizing about Pandas moving into the Lion's Home. They need to steer away from a plan that is not logical and now, not morally acceptable.

Maybe none of what I think is doable is a remedy or bandaid at best, but the reality is, the Zoo is broke and they are seemingly going to hold their breath for the next two years, on the fantasy that Pandas might come and save them.  A lot could be done in two years to change the situation.

If the Zoo did a "reevaluation" and decided to Keep Our Lions, I have two ideas I will give them, that will definitely raise funds, for their future needs if that time comes.

They need to stop the insanity of holding the Lion House captive for Pandas. The Mayor allegedly is talking with big company Donors.  Big companies in this town are obscenely wealthy, get them to kick in a few extra million, and take the Panda Party to the huge space next to Grizzlies.

The bottom line is they are moving Our Lions to further their Panda agenda.  Otherwise Our Lions would not be leaving, as they have no current mobility health concerns, and it could be years, if ever, before they did.  

This is pure Bullshit, and everyone can smell it.

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> Related Posts:  

*A Zoo Without Big Cats - Goodbye To Our Lions - Shame On Our Zoo & Mayor

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/a-zoo-without-big-cats-goodbye-to-our.html

*"Keep the Lions!"..."Lions & Tigers > Pandas" - Our Zoo Going Community Sounds Off

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/keep-lionslions-tigers-pandas-our-zoo.html

*Message To Officials - You Can Have Your Pandas BUT Don't F~k With Our Lions!

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/message-to-officials-you-can-have-your.html

> Petition:

San Francisco Zoo - Keep Our Lions In Their Home!

https://www.thepetitionsite.com/106/394/470/san-francisco-zoo-keep-our-lions-in-their-home/

> Comments:  

Note that Anonymous Comments are accepted.  I moderate all comments before publishing.  If you are using this form for a non-publish correspondence, please note "Personal" on it.  Thank you for your participation and/or feedback.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows.

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety  , #SanFranciscoZooCEODirectorCassandraCostello , #FormerSanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #FormerSanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed , #SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie , #AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence , #Pandas , #Bison ,  #Gorillas ,  #Lemurs

Chronicle Article Regarding Lions Leaving - Full Text, No Paywall & My Letter to Editor

This post is to provide the full text for readers who have been shutout by the Chronicle's paywall.  I did it for a friend last night, but now reading comments on Nextdoor, it's affecting others.  This is important for our Zoo-going public to read, so I'm sharing here. 

All of you know there is a post with my reaction to this imminent.  I started it last night, and about to get back to it when I decided to submit a Letter to the Editor, regarding this article.  They have never published my words, but I just gave it another go.  It's a two hundred word limit, you know my actual post will be longer!   That said, consider this a preview.

"I am a weekly visitor to Our Zoo.  Losing Our Lions is Heartbreaking.  Evicting them from The Lion House is a moral crime.   This is a Panda Plan agenda.  The reason given is not logical, it's hypothetical.   These aging concerns may never become an issue.  Realistically the Zoo could close down before that happens.   I believe if there was no plan to house Pandas in the Lion House, the Lions would not be leaving.   If health necessity is truly dictating this move and is 100% only factor, then Why isn't the Zoo acquiring another pair of Lions, and Tiger, for the years empty yard, to Keep Big Cats in Our Zoo?   In my opinion, it's because they are pushing their Panda Plan, regardless of how it affects current Animals, Public Fan Favorites, and Financial Struggles.  Everything is seemingly on hold while they wait for Pandas that may never come.  Every other Big Cat in the last ninety-three years, that lived out their life at Our Zoo, did so without being transferred out.  Adjustments were made.  Only difference now the Zoo no money, and future funds are seemingly for Pandas only.  Keep Our Lions!"

There are highlighted portions in the article text posted here, as those notations I made are what I want to expand on in my reaction post.  So, leaving as is.

SF Chronicle 5.27.26

Last two lions to leave San Francisco Zoo

A lion in Cat Kingdom at San Francisco Zoo. The lion enclosure is proposed home for panda exhibit and the lions are expected to be transferred to another zoo. 

The long tradition of lions roaring at the San Francisco Zoo, sometimes heard by neighbors in the Outer Sunset, will come to an end when the last two big cats are transferred out, as soon as a new home can be found.

The lion house, built in 1935, is expected to be remodeled as a home for two giant pandas which the zoo hopes to get from China. Those bears were originally expected to arrive last month but the deal has stalled.

Though the plan to bring pandas to San Francisco could still fall through, zoo management has made the decision not to upgrade the lion house to meet the needs of its aging residents: Marvella, an 11-year-old female that arrived from St. Louis in 2023 and Jasiri, a 10-year-old male born at the San Francisco Zoo. Lions under human care normally live 15 years. Jasiri suffers from a congenital spinal condition that has required ongoing physical therapy and is one reason for the move.

“Both lions remain agile and mobile, but as they age, they are starting to experience some mobility challenges,“ said Dr. Nick Dannemiller, one of the Zoo’s clinical veterinarians. “Even in old age, we want animals to have choice, comfort and control over their lives, and the current enclosure presents physical challenges, particularly for Jasiri, given his congenital spinal condition.” 

The lion house was upgraded in 2023, but there is concern that the floor surface is not flat enough and that the lions would have difficulty climbing out of the moat as they age.

“We have worked extensively to identify another area of the zoo to place them,” said Eric Krussman, executive vice president of animal care. “It is not feasible to build a new habitat for lions at this time, and other existing areas cannot adequately house big cats safely and securely.”

An accredited zoo that will take the two lions has not been identified, but officials hope they can be transferred together as a bonded pair. Not counting a few snow leopards, which are smaller and do not roar, the lions are the last big cats at the zoo and will be missed.

“This is an extremely difficult decision, as our lions are beloved by their caretakers, our staff and the public,” said Cassandra Costello, CEO of the zoo.

Lions have a long history at the zoo, going back to its opening in 1929. In the 1930s, when the grotto opened, it was revolutionary: Instead of cages, it had 12-foot moats, which offered visitors unobstructed views of the animals while also keeping the public safe. 

Neighbors may miss the roar of the lions. Kids at Holy Name of Jesus Parish school have long maintained they could hear them roar from the playground. Former state senator Quentin Kopp once said that he enjoyed hearing the roar of the lions from his home in the Parkside District.

There has never been an escape by lions although Tatiana, a 350-pound Siberian tiger famously climbed the tiger enclosure wall and fatally attacked a 17-year-old zoo visitor and injured two others on Christmas Day 2007. Tatiana was shot and killed by zoo officials. 

Despite the anticipated loss of the lions, the zoo is moving forward with other projects meant to bring in more visitors. In late June, a dinosaur exhibit, featuring life-sized animatronic figures will open. Entry fees are slated to jump by 8% in July, or $3 more for adults, to reduce an operating deficit. It's the first increase since 2023.

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> Related Posts:  

*A Zoo Without Big Cats - Goodbye To Our Lions - Shame On Our Zoo & Mayor

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/a-zoo-without-big-cats-goodbye-to-our.html

*"Keep the Lions!"..."Lions & Tigers > Pandas" - Our Zoo Going Community Sounds Off

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/keep-lionslions-tigers-pandas-our-zoo.html

*Message To Officials - You Can Have Your Pandas BUT Don't F~k With Our Lions!

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/message-to-officials-you-can-have-your.html

> Petition:

San Francisco Zoo - Keep Our Lions In Their Home!

https://www.thepetitionsite.com/106/394/470/san-francisco-zoo-keep-our-lions-in-their-home/

> Comments:  

Note that Anonymous Comments are accepted.  I moderate all comments before publishing.  If you are using this form for a non-publish correspondence, please note "Personal" on it.  Thank you for your participation and/or feedback.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows.

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety  , #SanFranciscoZooCEODirectorCassandraCostello , #FormerSanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #FormerSanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed , #SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie , #AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence , #Pandas , #Bison ,  #Gorillas ,  #Lemurs

Message To Officials - You Can Have Your Pandas BUT Don't F~k With Our Lions!

I realize some people might not like my word use in the title, and I did try and use "mess", but it didn't feel like me, or strong enough a convey, and at this point, this Old Leo Lady is Pissed Off.  

After eighteen years of former Director Tanya Peterson running Our Zoo into the ground, terrorizing Staff, and creating Animal Welfare offenses, I'm sick of it.  I'm fed-up with Our Zoo not trying harder to keep Animals that we become endeared to and care about.  Something they want, yet something that they obviously do not understand is their bread and butter, as the saying goes.  It started in 2015 with Our Long-timer Chimpanzees, and in more recent years, Hippo, Tiger, Guanaco, Condor, and culminating back to our remaining Chimpanzees.   So, yea I'm pissed off, effin' pissed off.  And I'm not alone.   Staff won't say anything, but I sure will.  And hopefully, more will join me, because this insanity needs to stop.

Our Lions Are Not Expendable!!!

In case you've missed my last two posts, Our San Francisco Zoo is set to send Our Lions to another Zoo, in favor of bringing Giant Pandas into their home in the Lion House, a historic building and Zoo icon, that has been home to Lions since 1933.

This can not happen.  Zoo Officials and SF Mayor Lurie, need to reexamine their plan and make sure Our Lions stay home at Our Zoo.  

I have not come in contact with anyone (Staff, Members, Visitors) who thinks Pandas are a good idea, or anyone who wants them for Our Zoo, especially at the expense of Our Lions.  

When the Panda Want started in April 2024, it was obviously a political move on then Mayor Breed's part, as her bid for re-election was looming.  Then former Zoo Director Peterson got involved, noting the Zoo had been chasing Pandas for years, clearly another selfish Want, as she knew very well Our Zoo was not in the position to give a home to the costly and complicated acquisition that Giant Pandas would be.

That said, two years later, in this current time of financial crumble Our Zoo is faced with, both Zoo Officials (new CEO/Director Cassandra Costello, Zoological Society Board) and new Mayor Daniel Lurie, have continued the Panda chase and with more certainty.   All statements from those entities point to the Panda Plan in motion, with Pandas reportedly arriving in early 2028.   

There has been no detailed statements made by the Zoo's Costello, or Mayor Lurie.  The public has only heard they are coming, and they are fundraising. There has been no statement regarding where the funds will come from, how much has actually been raised, and the breakdown of how the funds will be used in the first year (all expenses, from builds to bamboo, specialized staff, including extra security).  More importantly, there has been no official statement of their plan with Our Lions.  

No Media covering the Zoo, Pandas, or the Loan, have asked any of these questions.  No one seems to push for detailed answers, only taking press releases and repeating them.  This is a City owned facility, the public should know exactly what's going on.

For The City, obtaining Pandas has always been about "economic growth", a term that is now more than ever the driving force behind getting Pandas.  

In my opinion it seems Mayor Lurie is only concerned with how Pandas will effect relations with China and drive tourism.  He has not shown any interest in Our Zoo.  In October, he passed on his invite to ZooFest.  Has he been there since?  When was the last time he was at Our Zoo?  I doubt he has even been to the Zoo to see where they plan to put the Pandas.  Maybe he would even ask, What about the Lions?  Does he know we are losing Our Lions?  Does he care?

Mayor Lurie has also been noted as saying, in reference to the Loan extended to the Zoo, that giving them a loan is cheaper than closing the Zoo.  

Considering the above, and by all intimated accounts, Our Zoo's future is depending on Pandas.  Not sure if the Mayor cares either way, but from Zoo Officials stand point, it's seemingly, Pandas Will Save Our Zoo.   

Considering all things currently swirling, bringing Pandas to Our Zoo is seemingly Our Zoo's last hope.  But is it?  I still think there are untapped ways to help Our Zoo, which I may outline better in a future post.  That said, maybe the window on that has closed, and desperation is all that's left for a long-term fix.  It appears that Pandas are coming no matter what, so making the best of it has to be all we can hope for.  With that concession, the only hope is that bringing Pandas here is done right, not just logistically, but done right by Our Lions.

In my post dated May 21, "A Zoo Without Big Cats - Goodbye To Our Lions - Shame On Our Zoo & Mayor", I note several viable options that Do Not have Our Lions being displaced from The Lion House, and/or Our Zoo.

Considering those scenarios, in my opinion the moral, logical, financially sane, and least chaotic options to consider (in this order), are...

1) Lions stay in their Lion House.  Panda housing shifts to a new build south of Grizzly Bears.   This provides for the acquisition of a Tiger, which the public desperately wants.  This prevents destruction to the Lion House.  This uses funds raised for Pandas wiser.  If Pandas are here for ten years a new build is the only sustainable option.   They have their own space, the public is happy, as the Zoo needs Big Cats. 

Since ETA for arrival has been reported as Early 2028, they can push it to 2029, the Zoo's 100th Anniversary, and continue to find donors that will afford them to build a new enclosure for Pandas.  

2) Lions and Pandas share Big Cat area, but not Lion House.  Lions occupy Yard B, and Lion House.  Pandas occupy Yard A, and a new build off A, of a dayroom/night quarter.  An enclosure either visible to public or not.  This option allows for no visual contact between Pandas and Lions, which is supposedly a factor.  

3) The Zoo follows through on the original plan to build a new Lion enclosure.

One of those options is better than losing Our Lions.

Zoo Officials (and the Mayor), need to figure out how to get their Pandas in a way that doesn't include Our Lions losing their home at Our Zoo. 

Our Lions at risk for leaving should be non-negotiable.

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> Related Posts:  

*A Zoo Without Big Cats - Goodbye To Our Lions - Shame On Our Zoo & Mayor

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/a-zoo-without-big-cats-goodbye-to-our.html

*"Keep the Lions!"..."Lions & Tigers > Pandas" - Our Zoo Going Community Sounds Off

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/keep-lionslions-tigers-pandas-our-zoo.html

> Petition:

San Francisco Zoo - Keep Our Lions In Their Home!

https://www.thepetitionsite.com/106/394/470/san-francisco-zoo-keep-our-lions-in-their-home/

> Comments:  

Note that Anonymous Comments are accepted.  I moderate all comments before publishing.  If you are using this form for a non-publish correspondence, please note "Personal" on it.  Thank you for your participation and/or feedback.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows.

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety  , #SanFranciscoZooCEODirectorCassandraCostello , #FormerSanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #FormerSanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed , #SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie , #AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence , #Pandas , #Bison ,  #Gorillas ,  #Lemurs

"Keep the Lions!"..."Lions & Tigers > Pandas" - Our Zoo Going Community Sounds Off

I wrote my previous post the morning after hearing that it was definite Our Lions would not only be kicked out of their home in THE LION HOUSE, but OUT of Our Zoo.  

After I sent it to all my Zoo-going friends, one summed it right up...

"That is the saddest picture.  People are gonna hate the pandas when they find out.  Very sad."

This is the exact reason documenting this immediately had to happen.  

I could see there might be a chance that the Zoo would wait to announce it, until right before sending them out.  If there was any chance to save them, to Keep Our Lions, the public had to know.  There has to be public outrage.  

Losing Our Lions for Pandas is a big deal, and something that needs to be made public.

"I had no idea that getting rid of the lions was even possible?! How is there a zoo without lions? That is just crazy."

"With the pandas it's a nice cultural exchange with China, but Didn't know it was going to involve an eviction though."

While the Zoo has not publicly announced this, it is in the City Audit, released this month, as a contingency factor in acquiring Pandas, and no secret among Staff.  It is rumored that Mayor Lurie will make an announcement in the near future about Pandas coming to San Francisco.   

The following is a comment submitted to my previous post...

 

I decided to network the situation on a local Facebook group, and on Nextdoor.  I wanted more reactions to how Losing Our Lions would make locals feel.

These next two comments from social media efforts, mirror the one above...

"I think this is a disgrace 😔 no big cats at the zoo. Definitely will not renew my membership!"

"Won't be going to that Zoo any more."

Frankly, finding out how Our Zoo-going public will react to something like this happening at a place they care about and possibly support, is something the Zoo should be doing before making decisions like this.  At the very least, the Zoo should send a survey to everyone who holds a Membership, as well solicit opinions from those who visit and have an invested interest in Our Zoo, even if they aren't currently Members.

I spent the last three days, networking the Zoos plan to kick Our Lions out of the Zoo, in favor of Pandas.  There were a lot of comments (keep reading for more) on socials, and it took almost a full day to respond to them.

I got notice this morning that in just over a day, my post on Nextdoor alone had 7,700 views.  So, while there have not been as many comments, that is near eight thousand people who now know.  

Considering my efforts, and whether preemptive of a rumor, or exposing a plan the public will hate, the Zoo needs to make a statement soon, that speaks to their Plan regarding Our Lions future at Our Zoo.   They can not continue to talk about bringing in Pandas, without talking about how it will affect the Animals that currently live at Our Zoo.

The Zoo is currently THEIR home.  Not Pandas.  Jasiri, our male was born here.  He is a Legacy Lion.  In 1997, three Lion Cubs were brought to SF from South Africa, to start the first purebred African Lion line.  His Grandparents were two of those Cubs.   Taking away his home here, takes away that Legacy.  Taking Lions out of Our Zoo, takes away a beloved piece of our history that is, ninety-three years of Lions in the Lion House.

 

What is set to happen to Our Lions is not only morally unconscionable, but it's reckless with Our Zoo's future.

This Visitor gets it...

"What the F!?  Sorry but this is the downfall of our Zoo"

I will not let the discarding of Our Lions go without being their Voice.  I will ROAR for these friends as loud as I can.  I hope you will too! Hopefully it will make a difference in their future. ... Remember all comments to this blog are Anonymous.  I also share them with the Zoo management, and City Officials Mayor, Supervisors, RecPark).   So, the more, the better.  Let's all try to Keep Our Lions Home!

Below are comments pulled from Facebook, Nextdoor, my Petition (linked below), and a few Zoo going Friends.

"2nd gen SFnative dont do it"

"Uuuuuuhg. That sucks."

"I can hardly believe it.  We all love the big cats."

"What is a zoo without lions?! So stupid!"

"Sad that they are sending lions away just to get pandas. Every zoo I've ever been to has lions. Bad idea to send them away to another place."

"Wow.  I’m grateful Jack (Castor) and Audrey are gone for this."

"First the tigers, now lions? Big cats should be represented in any major zoo."

"Please, please, pandas are a waste and disruption that will harm all the current zoo residents."

"Please don't let the San Francisco Zoo be without Lions or other Big Cats!"

"Sure pandas are cuddly looking but hardly impressive.  On the otherhand, sight and sound of big cats can change your life."

"I have spent decades listening to the Big Cats roar as their daily feeding time approaches! It has been one of the great experiences of my life and I do NOT want the Big Cats to leave."

"My family has seen the giant pandas in DC, SD, MEM, and ATL.  Chances are high that when you visit them they will be sitting chewing on bamboo, and you'll probably think - what a waste of money to bring these animals to SF."

"Lots of memories, however in the recent years, the zoo has been totally mismanaged. The little puffer train is never running. They’re losing animals left and right. It’s becoming a total disappointment. I’m not sure who’s making these decisions but this is gonna be another downfall if they remove all of the big cats from the zoo." 

"Make the zoo better not worse"   

"We need Cats too!"

"Pandas is a political stunt. The zoo will cater to them and spend less time and money with current animals."

"The city is lending them $8.5M to help hold them over until they figure out the finances. Definitely should not be bringing the pandas with that kind of issue."

"Keep the lions 😊 Pandas are cute but dull. The mighty lions have been a fave for decades.  King of the jungle roaring & eating 🥩 or giant stuffed animal munching on bamboo? If we have to choose one over the other, I vote for the Lions. Or can’t they build another enclosure for the pandas?? Why wasn’t that thought out before they bid for the Pandas in the first place? "

Someone said...

"Wish they could find a way to have both lions and pandas."

I answered...

"They can!  It's called doing the right thing morally. Building a permanent home for Pandas and leaving the Big Cat area to Big Cats!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Petition:

San Francisco Zoo - Keep Our Lions In Their Home!

https://www.thepetitionsite.com/106/394/470/san-francisco-zoo-keep-our-lions-in-their-home/

> Related Posts:  

*A Zoo Without Big Cats - Goodbye To Our Lions - Shame On Our Zoo & Mayor

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/a-zoo-without-big-cats-goodbye-to-our.html

*Message To Officials - You Can Have Your Pandas BUT Don't F~k With Our Lions!

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/message-to-officials-you-can-have-your.html

> Comments:  

Note that Anonymous Comments are accepted.  I moderate all comments before publishing.  If you are using this form for a non-publish correspondence, please note "Personal" on it.  Thank you for your participation and/or feedback.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows.

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety  , #SanFranciscoZooCEODirectorCassandraCostello , #FormerSanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #FormerSanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed , #SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie , #AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence , #Pandas , #Bison ,  #Gorillas ,  #Lemurs

A Zoo Without Big Cats - Goodbye To Our Lions - Shame On Our Zoo & Mayor

It is allegedly imminent that Our Beloved Lions Jasiri and Lulu will be leaving their home at Our Zoo.  They are being kicked out in favor of bringing in Giant Pandas.

It is rumored this announcement will be made public at very soon.  I wouldn't be surprised if CEO Cassandra Costello will make an announcement at the RecPark Full Commission Meeting today.

While this is not shocking news, as I predicted this would happen back in December 2024, it is slightly surprising, as Pandas have not been confirmed, AND I would have hoped new Management would have done right by Our Lions.  My optimism for the future of Our Zoo is at zero, and my Soul weeps for Our Lions.

In December 2025, former Director Tanya Peterson was quoted in a Chronicle article relating to the costs of bringing in Pandas...  

"However, that does not account for the cost of building a new exhibit for "the lions that will be ousted from the Historic Lion House."  

I have written much about this outrage.  The pure insanity that Our Lions would be displaced from their home, IN THE LION HOUSE, is not only far from logical, it's disgusting.  

Further research showed the Zoo got approval from City Planning for this location of a new enclosure for Our Lions.

Enlargement of Approved Lion Relocation

I never believed this would happen.  There was no funding for Pandas, let alone a new enclosure for Lions.  In my opinion, this was just another lie from Tanya Peterson.

That said, this project site was submitted and approved by The City.  The Zoo needs to honor what was said would happen.  That Our Lions would have a new home built at Our Zoo.

In the recently released Audit at the Board of Supervisors order, this appears in the opening pages...

You can see that what I suspected would happen, is and probably always was, part of the Panda Plan.  There will be no new enclosure for Our Lions.  They will be sent to another Zoo.  

In addition to this moral disgrace, will they even be sent together?  When the Chimpanzees were set to transfer out, the female went to one Zoo, while the two males await their fate.

Our Zoo and City Mayor Daniel Lurie have no care to put everything into Pandas at the expense of beloved current residents.   If the greater public knew this, there would be outrage.

It is also rumored Mayor Lurie will make an announcement about Pandas in the very near future.  His announcement will allegedly include his alleged raised funds for Pandas.  

If The Millionaire Mayor has gathered funds for Pandas, he can surely get funds to keep our Lions and build them the enclosure they were promised. 

The Mayor does not care about Our Zoo, he only cares about creating a tighter bond with China and Chinese Tourism.   Let Lurie pay for the new Lion enclosure!

It is something to ponder whether the City Loan is only to keep the Zoo afloat, until his Panda Want comes to fruition.  If it fails, he will just close the Zoo.

Additionally, if the Mayor can or has got Panda Donors in place, why can't they or he put in additional funds and just build a new enclosure for Pandas?  Our Zoo has increasingly empty enclosure areas, pick one.  

I made this graphic to note the three areas in individual close-up graphics, and for showing this size comparisons, that aren't identifiable individually.

Graphic #3 shows the most logical open space to build a new enclosure for Pandas.  I've written about this location several times.  It's located south of Grizzly Gulch and encompasses not only the two huge adjacent former in-use enclosures, but extends further south toward former Hippo.  Tons of area for a huge yard, and night quarters.  With the most space to have visitor lines queue-up.  And when we can no longer afford Pandas enclosure can be used for Black Bear upgrade or another Animal.

Graphic #1 shows the long talked about Triple Grotto site and adjacent open spaces.   When the Orangutans move out and into what will be the former Chimpanzee area, this entire site will be vacant and fenced off for years to come.  This currently front viewing site is in the Zoo's reported most trafficked area.  A major focal point of the Zoo.   

Years ago, when Orangutans were first subjected to living in this ancient enclosure, it was expressed to me by a Staffer, that it should be considered for Pandas, as a way to get a new build for Orangutans, when we could no longer afford Pandas.  Now that Triple Grotto is set to be emptied, and in need of complete demolishing, fill-in and re-envision, this could be the most logical moving forward in bringing Pandas here.

This should be taken into serious consideration.

It would...

1.  Keep Our Lions in THE LION HOUSE.

2.  Solve the huge problem that leaving this site sit an eyesore for years will be.

3.  Solve the problem of eventual fundraising, of fund use, for this site in the future.

If the Zoo can't see fit to entertain these options, they should at least think about the following...

I suggested two years ago when former Mayor London Breed first chased Pandas, The Zoo should only commit to Pandas for two years, three tops.  If profitable then renegotiate for the additional time on the ten year lease.  As noted in the recent Audit pages, it was determined that revenue increase is highest first two years, then decreases significantly.  What doesn't decrease is the costs to have Pandas.

It is outrageous and irresponsible to proceed with the Panda Plan as is.  While it is not a secret I am against bringing Pandas here at all, until Our Zoo is fixed and stable, that argument will never be heard.  The Zoo and Mayor have even ignored their own staff who are against bring in Pandas.  So, the seemingly more sane and logical plan would be...

1.  Commit to a Temporary Lease for Pandas.

2. Temporary location in the Lion House that included sharing the Lion House with Lions.

3.  After first eighteen months. reevaluate increase in revenue and costs.

4. If profitable and proceed with ten year lease, build Pandas their own enclosure, since there will supposedly be an excess of increased revenue.

5.  Lions never leave.

That of course would be ideal for all involved.  The only issue is, The Zoo is allowing the Chinese Government to dictate things that make no sense.  Supposedly the Pandas can not be near or see any other Animal, hence the Lion eviction.  Yet, the Snow Leopards who live next door and the visual of the Black Rhino is ok?  Why is the Zoo bowing to this?

Sharing the Lion House...

There is no reason the Pandas need both Yards and the entire Lion House. Once the four Cat Yards became two, these enclosures became larger than even necessary.  As well, a partition can be built inside to completely separate the Pandas from the Lions.  If indoor Lion vocalizing echo is an issue, maybe what should happen is a night quarters for Pandas can be built on the exterior of the Lion House.  That solves the whole sharing issue. There are windows in Yard A, one can be removed as an entry to an adjacent night quarters.  The Pandas do not need visitor viewing dayrooms inside (doubling as night quarters) as proposed, but could have one outside adjacent to Yard. I'm actually really liking this idea!  The only issue I see could possibly be if there would be a problem heating that extension area. Otherwise logically, visually, and most important compassionately for Our Lions, it seems like a valid option.  There couldn't be much difference in price between building indoor rooms, as opposed to outdoor adjacent.  At least with outdoor extension, it would ensure no contact at all with Lions.  And temporary sharing is then doable.   Once their Panda windfall happens they can build a new Panda enclosure, and then Lions get to have a sheltered area for visitors to view them when it's raining.

This was an idea that popped into my mind as I am writing this.  So this is a new graphic just made.  It shows the area in front of the main Lion House entrance, that could be used for Panda night quarters, and even be windowed to achieve the same thing proposed for inside.  

These people need to think of ways to keep Our Lions, instead of thinking if them as expendable!

I am so upset and fed-up with this crap.  Our Zoo is in such desperate shape it is near closing.  The Loan is to keep the lights on and the Animals fed.  Pandas aren't expected until Spring 2028.   The Zoo needs to adopt my Roar from years ago and "Take Care At Home", and that doesn't include sending away Our Lions.  Enough with reducing the collection, and ignoring basic fixes.   

What is their plan for the next two years while waiting for Pandas to Save Our Zoo?   

Keep Our Lions and Fix Our Zoo!  

If Our Lions leave, I hope they pour all that money into Pandas and China turns around and says No Pandas For You!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

> Related Posts:  Use Search Box in upper left corner and search "Lions" , "Lion House" , "Pandas" .

> Next Posts:

"Keep the Lions!"..."Lions & Tigers > Pandas" - Our Zoo Going Community Sounds Off

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/keep-lionslions-tigers-pandas-our-zoo.html

*Message To Officials - You Can Have Your Pandas BUT Don't F~k With Our Lions!

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/message-to-officials-you-can-have-your.html

> Comments:  Note that Anonymous Comments are accepted.  I moderate all comments before publishing.  If you are using this form for a non-publish correspondence, please note "Personal" on it.  Thank you for your participation and/or feedback.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows.

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety  , #SanFranciscoZooCEODirectorCassandraCostello , #FormerSanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #FormerSanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed , #SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie , #AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence , #Pandas , #Bison ,  #Gorillas ,  #Lemurs

Highlighting The Aldabra Tortoise's Home - Clarifying Previous Thoughts

I started gathering photos for a weekly New On The Grounds post, well over a month ago, probably longer.  Of course, never got to it timely.  Need to search back through photos for things I was going to post about.  So, I'll do some retroactive mentions in future posts. 

For this week, I want to highlight the Aldabra Tortoise's home at the Family Farm.  In my two posts from last weekend that I wrote about What I'd Like To See, I mentioned possible new areas for both the Giant Tortoise species, Galapagos and Aldabra.  The later is not in immediate need and in hindsight, I wanted to clarify that.  

Two things sparked my thoughts/ideas for the two Tortoise species.  First, was seeing the huge space that the Radiated Tortoises now had in Madagascar, and then witnessing one of the Galapagos coming from it's night quarters and it seemingly just fitting through the doorway.   With that on my mind, I had already (long before those posts) been thinking of where the Galapagos could be moved.  I first thought about the old Patas/Eagle enclosure, but then Claudia the Condor was transferred out and I thought of her former home at the Puente, which I wrote about in a previous post.

I have had my eye on something being done with the old Duck Pond that neighbors the Family Farm Sand Corral, since before it was filled in, what seems like a couple years ago. It was drained and empty for years prior to that, then filled in and an attempted edible garden started.  Knowing the Aldabras would be growing for decades to come, about a year ago, I thought of this space possibly for them sometime in the future when they'd need a larger home.

In my previous posts, my mind was primarily on optics, as Our Zoo starts to heal from the past, and thrive into the future. With thoughts rooted in Needs of current Residents and, the Need to fill empty enclosures.  As well as a few new build ideas that would enhance the lives of current Residents, and future acquisitions.  

While I do think the Galapagos need an expanded home now, I do not think the Aldabras do, or will anytime soon.  I may have been influenced by wanting empty enclosures filled. I do think that former Patas/Eagle enclosure needs to be filled sooner, rather than later, I just think with a different species.  Hopefully the Zoo is actively looking for one, because it's been empty too long.  Again, optics. At this point in Our Zoo's healing process, I think working on perception is highly important to Our Zoo thriving.

That said, I realized after publishing, that my thoughts specifically about the Tortoises, got a bit blurred, at least in what the Aldabras current needs are.  I think all their needs are being met exceptionally in their current home.

Since that original thought about the Aldabra Tortoises future well over a year ago, their space at the Farm has expanded to include an additional area where the Cockatoo used to live, and most recently a renovation to the pool that was used by the Domestic Ducks years ago.  I hadn't been down to the Farm in a few weeks, so this week was my first time seeing the latest addition.

Aldabra Tortoises Home.

View showing different areas and substrates.  The former Cockatoo space is at the top (photo left of night quarters), moving counter clockwise, their sand box, mud waddle, wading pool (out of view, photo right), and the Keeper door with a howdy fence cut into it, a feature I think is thoughtful, so they aren't staring at wood, when they hear someone.

Earl in sand box, looking past their mud wallow towards their new wading pool at the back.

I Love Earl and Ida, and I love the home Farm Curators have built for them.  They have continually added enriching elements to their environment.  Ida and Earl are always out and active, enjoying their different substrates.

Earl enjoying the sand box.

Ida enjoying the mud wallow.

The most recent addition is the opening of the former Domestic Duck pool.  I was told Ida has already used the pool, and while Earl has gone to the ramp to check it out, he's still debating!

Ramp to pool

Pool view

Port hole viewing for Goats to look through.

I Love this!

As you can see, the Aldabra's are living their best lives at the Farm.   As expressed a bit at the opening, I was and still am uncomfortable that I mentioned them in previous posts suggesting moving them.  Explained why I think that happened, and really glad that the Universe sent me to the Farm the next day, and that I not only got to see their new pool, but remembered, they don't need to be moved anywhere for a long time.  Also glad I use a forum that allows me to rectify things that leave me feeling uneasy.

Hope everyone who visits Ida and Earl gets a chance to see them using their pool!  I'm hoping to get lucky with that this week!

Related Post:

*Continuation Of... - What I Think Our Zoo Needs aka What I'd Like To See

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2026/05/continuation-of-what-i-think-our-zoo.html

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows.

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety  , #SanFranciscoZooCEODirectorCassandraCostello , #FormerSanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #FormerSanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed , #SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie , #AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence , #Pandas , #Bison ,  #Gorillas ,  #Lemurs